Snowy council feels effect of economic strain

The Mayor of a New South Wales high country council says he is frustrated infrastructure upgrades in the shire are suffering because of a tightening budget.

The Snowy River Council is holding public meetings this week to inform residents about the shire's financial position.

John Cahill, says the council has had to make some harsh budget cuts, because it is a financially difficult time for the region.

"It is a very frustrating time.

“When you read all the financial arrangements for our council and the earning capacity of tourism in this area, we are just not harvesting enough of those dollars to provide the community infrastructure that's required," Mr Cahill said.

Mr Cahill says solutions will need to be looked at.

"At some point in the very near future, council is going to have to go to the community, with a program for a significant rate increase.

“That's about the only way that we can raise additional money," he said.